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Hailes Abbey

6.8 miles (11 km)

Ordnance Survey Map Open Streetmap This circular walk visits the historic Hailes Abbey in Gloucestershire. It then uses a section of the Gloucestershire Way to visit the nearby town of Winchcombe. As such the route could also be started/finished from the town if your prefer.
The route runs for about 7 miles, exploring the countryside surrounding the abbey. It starts and ends at the abbey car park, located next to Hailes Wood about two miles north east of Winchcombe. The ruined abbey dates back to 1246 is and is designated as a Grade I listed building. It is now under the care of English Heritage and includes a fascinating museum where you can learn all about the abbey's history.
You can extend the walk by heading a little to the south to visit the neighbouring Sudeley Castle, another highlight of the area.

Postcode

GL54 5PB - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locations

Please click here for more information

Hailes Abbey OS Map Ordnance survey map - Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking

Hailes Abbey Open Street Map Open Streetmap - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Further Information and Other Local Ideas

The Cotswold Way National trail passes the site, providing an opportunity for further exploring the area.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Gloucestershire Walks, Cotswolds Walks page.

Photos

Hailes Abbey - geograph.org.uk - 640919

Hailes Abbey was founded in 1246 and was once a site of pilgrimage. Like many others this Cistercian abbey was desolved in the reformation during the reign of king Henry VIII. The abbey is in the care of the National Trust.

Hailes Abbey

Hailes Abbey ruins.

Hailes church - geograph.org.uk - 1549640

Hailes church. The church does not appear to have a dedication. The building predates the 12th century Cistercian Abbey nearby by 50 years.

Hailes Abbey - geograph.org.uk - 638665

Possibly the remains of a cross situated to the west of Hailes Abbey which can be seen in the background.

Hailes Labyrinth - geograph.org.uk - 638644

Hailes Labyrinth. The grass Hailes Labyrinth is highlighted by frost.

Cottages on Salters's Lane - geograph.org.uk - 1727236

Cottages on Salters's Lane

Video

GPS Files

GPX File

Hailes Abbey.gpx (On Desktop:Right Click>Save As. On Ipad/Iphone:Click and hold>Download Linked File)

Memory Map Route

Hailes Abbey.mmo (On Desktop:Right Click>Save As. On Ipad/Iphone:Click and hold >Download Linked File)